Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Newsletter

Friday, May 9, 2025

Dear Golden Eagles,

Can you believe it, another academic year is quickly coming to an end? As we prepare for the close of the semester, I’d like to share a few things.

Menstrual Products:

You may have noticed that menstrual products have been placed in all women’s and gender-neutral bathrooms in non-residential buildings on Brockport’s main campus, Brockport Downtown and the REOC. Pursuant to NY State’s Public Health Law § 267-b, requires all state operated campuses to provide menstrual products, at no cost to students.

The housekeeping staff will track inventory and restock products as needed. Please contact the Facilities Service Center at 585-395-2408 if supplies need to be replenished. The Service Center is available 24/7. Free menstrual products are also provided in the Health Promotion & Prevention Education and/or the food pantry both located in Daily Hall.

2025-2026 Faculty Diversity Fellows: Call for Applications

The application process for the 2025-2026 Faculty Diversity Fellowship (FDF) is now open. The FDFs for the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (OEDI) will work primarily on research and/or action project of their own design or based on the needs in OEDI, which supports the goals of the EDI Strategic Plan and generally contributes to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the SUNY Brockport community. This is an opportunity to receive support to implement a project you believe will make a difference toward inclusive excellence at SUNY Brockport.

There are two (2) fellowships available for the 2025-2026 academic year.

• 1-FDF for research and/or action project of their own design.
• 2-FDF for data analysis 2025 Campus Climate Survey.

Eligibility: Any tenured or tenure-line faculty, or full-time instructor/lecturers, is eligible to apply.

Application:

The application deadline for the 2025-2026 academic year is Friday, May 30, 2025.

Additional information about the fellowship can be found on the OEDI website.

Campus Climate Updates and Survey Planning Committee

Last month, President Macpherson and I shared the progress made in response to the recommendations made by the President ‘s Campus Climate Committee from the data collected from the fall 2022 survey. We were delighted to share the great work each division has done and plan to do to make Brockport a great place to learn and work. The full progress report will be shared on the OEDI website by the end of the academic year.

The campus climate survey committee has met to begin the planning process for the dissemination on the next climate survey in the fall of 2025. Our initial conversations have focused on plans for marketing/communication, data analysis, as well as incentives. Some of this work will continue over the summer.

Interfaith Council and Prayer Space

Earlier this semester I announced a new location for a larger interfaith prayer and meditation space was identified in Cooper Hall. I’m happy to now share that work on Copper B10 will begin after commencement, with completion slated for August 2025. Additionally, the newly formed Interfaith Council has met twice this semester to tour the new space as well as discuss how to enhance the sense of belonging for members of the SUNY Brockport community. The council, comprised of students, faculty, and staff, will reconvene in the fall to continue this work.

A Note from Charlotte Wade, Assistant Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion:

Expanding Your Perspective

One of the most meaningful ways we can practice inclusion is by actively expanding our understanding of others’ experiences and perspectives. But in a world where we’re all juggling full schedules and constant demands, how can we realistically make space for this kind of growth?

The good news is—you don’t need to overhaul your life. Start with what you already enjoy. Whether it’s reading, watching TV, or diving into a good movie, consider exploring diverse voices within your favorite genres. For example, browse reading lists tied to heritage months or cultural celebrations—you might discover a new favorite author or storyline that opens your eyes to a different worldview.

Also, take a look at your social circles. Many of us naturally surround ourselves with people who share similar backgrounds or viewpoints. What would it look like to step outside of that comfort zone? Joining a new club, attending a community event, or volunteering with a different organization can be great ways to connect with others and broaden your understanding of the world around you.

Inclusion starts with curiosity—and it grows through connection.

This will be the last newsletter for the academic year. Information that needs to be shared widely will be done via email. The OEDI newsletter will resume in August 2025.

I wish all students the best of luck on your finals. I hope you all have a great and rest filled summer.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!